Senior India player Ishan Kishan revealed that the Indian dressing room is taking collective responsibility to ensure teenage batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi remains grounded following his historic international debut. Kishan emphasized that the team is focused on managing the hype surrounding the "X-factor" talent.
He noted, "He's been doing so well for the past two years. He came into the side when the team was doing well and has already made that difference.” Regarding Vaibhav’s debut against England, where he hit a six off Jofra Archer, Kishan said, "This shows what level of batsman he is. In the coming times, Vaibhav's 'movie' is going to be a super-duper blockbuster.”
He added that the dressing room environment remains supportive despite the logistical restrictions, saying, "The rules are there for safeguarding, but as a team we ensure he feels part of the group all the time."
India's management has adopted a player-first approach throughout the tour, ensuring Sooryavanshi is accompanied during team activities while fully complying with ICC safeguarding protocols. Kishan's comments highlighted the squad's determination to protect the young prodigy off the field while allowing him the freedom to express himself on it, creating an environment where one of India's brightest talents can continue to develop with confidence.
With ICC safeguarding regulations requiring the youngster to use a separate changing room because he is under 16, Kishan stressed that the arrangement has not affected the team's bond in any way and that every senior player is making a conscious effort to include him.
India rally around Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as teenage star impresses on international debut
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi marked a memorable international debut for India, taking another significant step in what has already been a remarkable rise through the ranks. The 15-year-old displayed composure beyond his years, showing confidence against a quality England attack despite the occasion. While the spotlight was firmly on the teenage sensation, he embraced the challenge with fearless intent and impressed with his calm approach at the crease. His debut also highlighted the faith India's team management has placed in young talent, rewarding consistent performances with an early opportunity on the biggest stage. Although there is still a long journey ahead, the youngster's first appearance in Indian colours offered a glimpse of his immense potential and a bright future for Indian cricket.
India delivered another competitive performance against England in the second T20I, posting a challenging total of 190/7 before taking the contest deep into the chase. Ishan Kishan led the batting with a fluent 49, while Tilak Varma's late acceleration ensured India finished strongly after the middle overs slowed the scoring. The bowlers then struck twice in the opening over to leave England reeling, putting the visitors firmly in control. However, Jacob Bethell's brilliant counterattack shifted the momentum, and a costly 17th over proved decisive as England completed the chase with four wickets in hand. Despite the defeat, India showed plenty of positives with disciplined spells, aggressive batting and the memorable international debut of 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.
